By: Fuyu Banno

Graphics Editor

On Jan. 16, the long awaited Nintendo Switch 2 was revealed with new information on its design and release, delighting long time Nintendo fans and video game fanatics alike. Nintendo released a video trailer showcasing the Switch’s updated design, released information on software compatibility, and advertising future events to hype up fans until its official release date.

It has been almost eight years since the release of the original Nintendo Switch, becoming one of the most loved video consoles of all time. Its appeal came with an easy-to-use interface, something that could be used with all ages, and most of all, its flexibility. The switch’s main appeal came with its ability to become an at-home console as well as its ability to be played on the go. The side console could be “switched” so many people can play but could also be a hand-held console for individual play.  

The biggest change that comes with the Nintendo Switch 2 is that the Switch 2 will no longer have the same trademark “switch” function where the side consoles can be removed, but instead the controllers will be attached and removed by snapping them on. The controllers will also lose their iconic bright colors that fully encapsulate the controllers, but instead will be completely black with only a small highlight of the blue and red. Besides the controller, the new switch will have an enlarged screen and a bigger kickstand.

Furthermore, fans were worried that their old Nintendo switch games wouldn’t work with the new Nintendo Switch 2, but it was revealed that the Switch 2 will be mostly backwards compatible. This means that the games that worked on the original Switch will also work on the new one as well, making it so players do not need to repurchase games. With the hefty price tag on the games, this flexibility was a big relief for players.   

Aside from older games, Nintendo recently revealed that there would be a new Mario Kart for the Switch 2. Although this is the only new game that has been confirmed, fans speculate that there will be more information on new games in the foreseeable future.

For those especially enthusiastic about the release, Nintendo also announced that there would be events where people could try the new gaming consoles in certain areas. These trial parties are set to open around the world in places such as Japan, Spain, Australia, and in certain cities in the United States.    

In the following months, there will be more information on the new Nintendo switch including a more specific detail on the technical specifications of the device and, more importantly, its price. With the steady popularity of the original Nintendo Switch, the Switch 2 will no doubt be Nintendo’s next biggest star. 

[Sources: Cnet, Nintendo, Screenrant]